SpaceX’s Effort to Launch 22,000 Satellites Faces Opposition
A Ukrainian-American nonprofit is formally objecting to SpaceX’s plan to put 22,488 additional satellites into low-earth orbit, citing concerns about CEO Elon Musk’s “contacts with Russia and the alleged use of his Starlink system by Russian forces in Ukraine.”
The Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA) has filed a petition to deny and motion for stay with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The group is worried about the potential negative environmental impacts of SpaceX launches, particularly in Texas, where vibrations and noise from the rockets have led to the destruction of endangered bird nests. Musk has responded with sarcastic comments, but Belendiuk, UCCA’s lead regulatory counsel, argues that instead of making amends, the billionaire is mocking the environmental groups’ concerns.
Furthermore, the UCCA is critical of Musk’s “objectivity” due to his work with the incoming Trump administration. The nonprofit asserts that Musk’s financial benefits from government contracts and other actions taken by the FCC create a conflict of interest. The group wants the FCC to determine how Musk will comply with the Federal Advisory Committee Act before it authorizes any further SpaceX requests.
The opposition group is also concerned about Starlink’s potential involvement with Russian forces in Ukraine and the reported use of their terminals in Iranian-designed drones. In September, the Pentagon agreed to purchase Starlink satellite internet terminals for use in Ukraine’s ongoing defense against Russia, despite concerns about the possible repercussions.
The UCCA petition and motion to deny, filed on Wednesday, cite the need to address Starlink’s potential links to Russia and the environment’s impact on the Boca Chica, Texas area where SpaceX launches take place.
The outcome of the FCC’s decision will affect SpaceX’s plans to enable more destinations around the world through its Gen2 NGSO Satellite System. Meanwhile, the controversy surrounding SpaceX has sparked a debate on corporate accountability, government transparency, and the potential conflict of interest between business interests and public policy.
